Why Americans are Nuts for NASCAR

May 20, 2019

Find out why NASCAR is one of the most popular spectator sports in the country.

NASCAR is one of the most popular spectator sports in the country, but many Americans have never even watched a race. For those who haven't been inducted into the NASCAR frenzy, it might be hard to understand why millions of fans are tuning in. After all, what's so great about stock-car auto racing? Well, a lot actually. Here's a little insight into why viewers are going nuts for NASCAR, and why you probably should too.

Always a Celebration

Whether you're going to a race or simply watching at home, the NASCAR experience is infectiously fun. Each race is surrounded by a festive atmosphere, jam-packed with food trucks, souvenirs, carnival games like corn hole, selfie-friendly photo areas and more. You can even walk along the track before the race begins! Even if you're watching on TV, the excitement is palpable. That's why so many people create a Sunday ritual, inviting family and friends to take in the action. It's easy to recreate that celebratory vibe by offering a variety of food, drinks and interactive games.

Relatability

Many fans claim that NASCAR stars are more down-to-earth than their NFL or NBA counterparts. For example, no matter how much money Dale Earnhardt Jr. made, you'd still see photos of him back at the ranch, working on his farm. In a Frontstretch.com article, motorsports author Bryan Gable describes NASCAR drivers as regular “guys I would have met in a college dorm."

In addition, NASCAR drivers tend to be much more accessible to the public. You won't find Tom Brady glad-handing fans outside of Gillette Stadium, but you might very well see NASCAR drivers out with their souvenir trucks signing autographs before races. The younger crop of stock car auto-racers is particularly visible because of social media. For example, Ryan Blaney recently prank called fellow drivers Darrell Wallace Jr. and Kyle Larson on a podcast. Plus, he's an avid Star Wars fan. What's not to love?

Easy to Follow

When compared to other popular spectator sports, NASCAR rules are pretty cut and dry—the first car over the finish line wins! Sure, there are multiple stages and a point system, but you don't have to know all of the details to enjoy the race. This makes watching NASCAR fun and relatively effortless, perfect for a lazy Sunday. Also, with an extra-long season spanning from February to November, NASCAR is almost always available. And nowadays it's even easier to tune in, thanks to Cox Contour , which has fun features like the voice remote.

There are plenty of reasons to watch stock-car auto racing, but at the end of the day, it's just exciting. The speed, the adrenaline, the atmosphere…it's a sure recipe for a fun Sunday afternoon. If you can't make it to the racetrack, try watching on TV, and you'll quickly find that NASCAR is oh-so-much more than a bunch of cars making left turns.